Chicago Restaurant Week: Top 10 Spots On My Wishlist

9. Artichoke Salad & Patatas Bravas

Hello, Chicagoans! The return of Restaurant Week is upon us and I am excited.

Restaurant Week is a great way to try some of Chicago's new (or new to you) restaurants without emptying your bank account. From February 1 through February 10, 2013 dozens of Chicago restaurants will be offering special tasting menus for lunch ($22/person) and/or dinner ($33 or $44/person). I love food, love dining out, and love trying new spots so I, of course, have already scoured the list of participating restaurants. I'm not going to lie--  some of them have pretty lame menus. However, a few really do stand out and I have made a list of restaurants I'd like to try that seem to have the best prix fixe menu offerings.

1. The Bristol, American in Bucktown/Wicker Park. Have heard great things about this place. Menu highlight: Pumpkin Bread Panzanella. Yes, please!
2. Carriage House, Contemporary American in Bucktown/Wicker Park. Menu highlights: Fried green tomatoes to start, beignets to finish.
3. Chicago Q, BBQ in Gold Coast. We've already been here a number of times, but I just love it so much that I'd look for any excuse to go back! Menu highlights: Their delicious Kobe Brisket (with choice of sides-- I recommend their coleslaw) or our favorite spicy hush puppies as a starter.
4. Gemini Bistro, American in Lincoln Park. My friend Kit at the kittchen gave this place rave reviews! Menu highlights: Salads! Winter with Roquefort and dried cherries or the Beet Salad.
5. Mercadito, Mexican in River North. Menu highlights: Mixing and matching! Choose 3 guacamoles, 2 ceviches, and 4 tacos per table? Fun!
6. Mon Ami Gabi, French in Lincoln Park. Menu highlights: Steak Frites or Burgundy Braised Beef Shortribs as entree options.
7. Nellcote, Modern European in West Loop. Menu highlights: Brussels sprouts! In both a salad and the chicken entree option.
8. Piccolo Sogno Due, Italian in River North. Have been to the original, but not to this new location. Menu highlight: 6 Italian dessert options including cannoli and panna cotta.
9. Tavernita, Spanish Tapas in River North. Menu highlights: A prix fixe menu made for sharing! Delicious Artichoke Salad (I've had it at their bar Barcito) and the always yummy patatas bravas.
10. ZED451, Contemporary Steakhouse in River North. Menu highlights: Roasted Butternut Squash Salad to start and the Moroccan Grilled Chicken entree.

Check out the full list of participating restaurants and their Restaurant Week menus here and make your reservations soon.  Happy dining!